Kailah Ortiz, MOL Class of 2019

Email: klo5181@psu.edu

From: Lancaster, PA

Undergraduate Degree: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Penn State University, Berks Commonwealth Campus

What previous internship(s) or work experience do you have?

Eurofins Lancaster Labs (Lab Tech), Johns Hopkins University (researcher), Colorado State University (researcher), Penn State MOL Admissions and Student Affair Graduate Assistant, Penn State Berks Peer Academic Leader (TA) and Penn State Berks First Year Mentor (TA).

Why did you choose to pursue a MOL degree?

My previous work experience in the science industry and leadership involvement in my undergrad is what sparked my interest in perusing business. Since science and business speak two different languages, I chose the MOL program because it will help me bridge the gap between the two as well as help me expand my leadership and management skills.

What has been your favorite aspect of the Smeal MOL degree thus far?

Other than building relationships, I love working in diverse groups. We all bring different perspectives into the program due to our backgrounds (both academically and culturally).  This allows for a fun and interesting discussion on business cases.

What are your career goals and how will this MOL degree set you up to achieve those goals?

I want to be in a management role in a healthcare or pharmaceutical company. I would love to run my own department either through operations, manufacturing or research and development! The MOL degree will help me gain critical leadership and management skills that will let me become an effective and motivational leader.

What is an interesting fact about you that we would not find on your resume?

I was born and raised in Denver Colorado! I lived there for 11 years and then moved out to PA because of my mom’s job relocated her out here.